#four season washington dc

[jessicaminhanh]

Jessica Minh Anh's stay at Four Seasons Washington DC in the US capital

Jessica Minh Anh recently spent her weekend in the US capital. During this exclusive visit, she chose none other than the luxurious Four Seasons Washington DC, where elegance, sophistication, and impeccable service are synonymous with the name.

Perched in the heart of the city, the suite at Four Seasons Washington DC offered Jessica breathtaking views of the historic Georgetown. Jessica's suite exuded modern elegance, featuring warm buttery neutrals and shimmering gold, bronze, and cognac accents. The full marble bathroom provided a luxurious sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Jessica's culinary journey at Four Seasons Washington DC was a true culinary delight, with Bourbon Steak restaurant taking center stage. Known for being the ultimate power lunch destination in the city, the restaurant lived up to its reputation. Jessica savored an extraordinary array of dishes. She delighted in succulent lobster, tender and flavorful steak, with the indulgence of caviar and truffles. This is one of the best meal she ever had in such a long time.

As part of her trip to Washington DC, Jessica Minh Anh also visited the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, and Washington Monument, embracing their historical significance and iconic presence. Jessica's time in Washington DC was filled with cherished memories.

[thinking-quietly-aloud]

Four Seasons afternoon tea

[reasonsforhope]

"In some cities, as many as one in four office spaces are vacant. Some start-ups are giving them a second life – as indoor farms growing crops as varied as kale, cucumber and herbs.

Since its 1967 construction, Canada's "Calgary Tower", a 190m (623ft) concrete-and-steel observation tower in Calgary, Alberta, has been home to an observation deck, panoramic restaurants and souvenir shops. Last year, it welcomed a different kind of business: a fully functioning indoor farm.

Sprawling across 6,000sq m (65,000 sq ft), the farm, which produces dozens of crops including strawberries, kale and cucumber, is a striking example of the search for city-grown food. But it's hardly alone. From Japan to Singapore to Dubai, vertical indoor farms – where crops can be grown in climate-controlled environments with hydroponics, aquaponics or aeroponics techniques – have been popping up around the world.

While indoor farming had been on the rise for years, a watershed moment came during the Covid-19 pandemic, when disruptions to the food supply chain underscored the need for local solutions. In 2021, $6bn (£4.8bn) in vertical farming deals were registered globally – the peak year for vertical farming investment. As the global economy entered its post-pandemic phase, some high-profile startups like Fifth Season went out of business, and others including Planted Detroit and AeroFarms running into a period of financial difficulty. Some commentators questioned whether a "vertical farming bubble" had popped.

But a new, post-pandemic trend may give the sector a boost. In countries including Canada and Australia, landlords are struggling to fill vacant office spaces as companies embrace remote and hybrid work. In the US, the office vacancy rate is more than 20%.

"Vertical farms may prove to be a cost-effective way to fill in vacant office buildings," says Warren Seay, Jr, a real estate finance partner in the Washington DC offices of US law firm ArentFox Schiff, who authored an article on urban farm reconversions. 

There are other reasons for the interest in urban farms, too. Though supply chains have largely recovered post-Covid-19, other global shocks, including climate change, geopolitical turmoil and farmers' strikes, mean that they continue to be vulnerable – driving more cities to look for local food production options...

Thanks to artificial light and controlled temperatures, offices are proving surprisingly good environments for indoor agriculture, spurring some companies to convert part of their facilities into small farms. Since 2022, Australia's start-up Greenspace has worked with clients like Deloitte and Commonwealth Bank to turn "dead zones", like the space between lifts and meeting rooms, into 2m (6ft) tall hydroponic cabinets growing leafy greens.

On top of being adaptable to indoor farm operations, vacant office buildings offer the advantage of proximity to final consumers.

In a former paper storage warehouse in Arlington, about a mile outside of Washington DC, Jacqueline Potter and the team at Area 2 Farms are growing over 180 organic varieties of lettuce, greens, root vegetables, herbs and micro-greens. By serving consumers 10 miles away or less, the company has driven down transport costs and associated greenhouse emissions.

This also frees the team up to grow other types of food that can be hard to find elsewhere – such as edible flower species like buzz buttons and nasturtium. "Most crops are now selected to be grown because of their ability to withstand a 1,500-mile journey," Potter says, referring to the average distance covered by crops in the US before reaching customers. "In our farm, we can select crops for other properties like their nutritional value or taste."

Overall, vertical farms have the potential to outperform regular farms on several environmental sustainability metrics like water usage, says Evan Fraser, professor of geography at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada and the director of the Arell Food Institute, a research centre on sustainable food production. Most indoor farms report using a tiny fraction of the water that outdoor farms use. Indoor farms also report greater output per square mile than regular farms.

Energy use, however, is the "Achilles heel" of this sector, says Fraser: vertical farms need a lot of electricity to run lighting and ventilation systems, smart sensors and automated harvesting technologies. But if energy is sourced from renewable sources, they can outperform regular farms on this metric too, he says. 

Because of variations in operational setup, it is hard to make a general assessment of the environmental, social and economic sustainability of indoor farms, says Jiangxiao Qiu, a landscape ecologist at the University of Florida and author of a study on urban agriculture's role in sustainability. Still, he agrees with Fraser: in general, urban indoor farms have higher crop yield per square foot, greater water and nutrient-use efficiency, better resistance to pests and shorter distance to market. Downsides include high energy use due to lighting, ventilation and air conditioning.

They face other challenges, too. As Seay notes, zoning laws often do not allow for agricultural activity within urban areas (although some cities like Arlington, Virginia, and Cincinnati, Ohio, have recently updated zoning to allow indoor farms). And, for now, indoor farms have limited crop range. It is hard to produce staple crops like wheat, corn or rice indoors, says Fraser. Aside from leafy greens, most indoor facilities cannot yet produce other types of crops at scale.

But as long as the post-pandemic trends of remote work and corporate downsizing will last, indoor farms may keep popping up in cities around the world, Seay says. 

"One thing cities dislike more than anything is unused spaces that don't drive economic growth," he says. "If indoor farm conversions in cities like Arlington prove successful, others may follow suit.""

-via BBC, January 27, 2025

[hotelbooking]

Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC You'll love the exceptional convenience during your stay at Travelers are guaranteed to have a hassle-free stay with all the amenities and services provided by You'll have no problem planning out your days and transportation needs with front desk services including concierge service, express check-in or check-out, luggage storage and safety deposit boxes. The hotel's ticket service can even help you book tickets and reservations for entertainment and explorations. Wear your favorite outfits again and again thanks to the laundromat, dry cleaning service and laundry service offered at The hotel is entirely non-smoking. Smoking may only take place in restricted designated areas. Rooms at You may be assured to know that bottled water, a coffee or tea maker, instant coffee, instant tea and mini bar are available in some select rooms. You can stay fresh and clean with a hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and towels provided in some of the guest bathrooms. Wake...

[saywhat-politics]

By Katherine Hamilton Digital Content Writing Fellow, RepresentUs June 1, 2021

Last election season, you probably saw a lot of social media posts and emails telling you to call your congress members and voice your support for certain issues.

But, does contacting your representatives really work?

The short answer? YES! You might be surprised to know just how much of a difference making a phone call or writing an email can be. Here’s why it works.

What happens when you call your representative?

When you call, your message is logged and relayed to your senator and the staffers in their office crafting policy. Every single call helps your senator know how much of a priority this issue is for their constituents. It’s all about building pressure, and calls are one of the most efficient ways to do so.

Four Reasons Calling Congress Makes a Huge Difference

Congress members care about re-election — and you control their chances. Congress members spend more than half their time in office focusing on re-election. If a politician wants to get re-elected, he or she has to ensure they’re addressing their constituents’ concerns. When you contact your lawmakers to let them know what policies you support, you’re telling them what they can do to win your vote in the next election. This is an extremely effective way of getting your officials to listen to you — and it’s exactly how democracy is supposed to work!

A lot of callers can build a lot of pressure. When a legislator starts hearing the same concerns from a lot of citizens, it puts a lot of pressure on them to vote the way their constituents want. Flooding a lawmaker’s inbox or phone line can completely stall office activity, and really get the attention of your elected official. When you contact your representative, you’re adding your voice to a wave of grassroots pressure.

It’s one of the best ways to voice your opinion in the election off-season. There’s not always an election around the corner, and even when there is, you don’t always get to vote on the issues you really care about. But civic participation can — and should — happen year-round. Contacting your elected officials holds them accountable for representing you, even when it’s not election season.

It literally only takes two minutes! One of the best things about calling your representatives? It’s incredibly quick and easy to do. Most groups that ask you to contact Congress will provide you with easy-to-follow instructions and a simple script to read — although adding personal touches is highly encouraged! Who knew saving democracy could take as much time as brushing your teeth?

All questions and comments regarding public policy issues, legislation, or requests for personal assistance should be directed to the senators from your state. Please be aware that as a matter of professional courtesy, many senators will acknowledge, but not respond to, a message from another senator's constituent.

Options for Contacting Senators

Web contact forms are available on most senators' websites

Postal Addresses

Addresses for each senator can be found on the senator's website or state's web page

The following standard address can be also be used: The Honorable (Name) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 For correspondence to a Senate committee or to a Senate committee chair: (Name of Committee) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510

Telephone

Phone numbers are available on each state's page or on your senator's website

Senators Suite & Telephone List (PDF)

A U.S. Capitol Switchboard operator can also connect you directly with the Senate office. (202) 224-3121

[galleryofart]

The Voyage Of Life

Artist: Thomas Cole (American, 1801-1848)

Date: 1842

Medium: Oil paintings

Collection: National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, United States

Description

The Voyage of Life is a series of four paintings created by the American artist Thomas Cole in 1840 and reproduced with minor alterations in 1842, representing an allegory of the four stages of human life. The paintings, Childhood, Youth, Manhood, and Old Age, depict a voyager who travels in a boat on a river through the mid-19th-century American wilderness. In each painting the voyager rides the boat on the River of Life accompanied by a guardian angel. The landscape, each reflecting one of the four seasons of the year, plays a major role in conveying the story. With each installment the boat's direction of travel is reversed from the previous picture. In childhood, the infant glides from a dark cave into a rich, green landscape. As a youth, the boy takes control of the boat and aims for a shining castle in the sky. In manhood, the adult relies on prayer and religious faith to sustain him through rough waters and a threatening landscape. Finally, the man becomes old and the angel guides him to heaven across the waters of eternity.

Voyage Of Life: Childhood

In the first painting, Childhood, all the important story elements of the series are introduced: the voyager, the angel, the river, and the expressive landscape. An infant is safely ensconced in a boat guided by an angel. The landscape is lush; everything is calm and basking in warm sunshine, reflecting the innocence and joy of childhood. The boat glides out of a dark, craggy cave which Cole himself described as "emblematic of our earthly origin, and the mysterious Past." The river is smooth and narrow, symbolizing the sheltered experience of childhood. The figurehead on the prow holds an hourglass representing time.

In the first version of this work, Cole shows less landscape on the right side and thus does not include the river winding to the horizon. The perspective is also different: in the original, the boat is in the foreground, while in the second, Cole moves the boat deeper in the picture and portrays more of the river in the foreground.

Voyage of Life: Youth

The second painting, Youth, shows the same lush, green landscape, but here the view widens as does the voyager's life experience. Now the youth has firm hold of the tiller as the angel watches and waves from the shore, allowing him to take control. The subject's youthful enthusiasm and energy is evident in his forward-thrusting pose and billowing clothes. In the distance, an ethereal citadel towers in the sky, a shimmering white beacon that represents the dreams and ambitions of humanity.

Detail of Thomas Cole's The Voyage of Life: Youth: shows the boy departing in the boat; the angel bids him farewell from the shore. To the youth, the tranquil river appears to lead directly to the shimmering beacon, but at the far right of the painting one can just glimpse the river as it changes to become rough and difficult with the danger of rocks.

Cole comments on the landscape and the youth's ambitions: "The scenery of the picture—its clear stream, its lofty trees, its towering mountains, its unbounded distance, and transparent atmosphere—figure forth the romantic beauty of youthful imaginings, when the mind elevates the mean and common into the magnificent, before experience teaches what is the Real.

Voyage of Life: Manhood

Third in the series, Manhood, shows a now grown figure in the vessel, amid the tribulations of adult life. Storm clouds ominously darken the sky, wind whips at the man's clothing and rain falls in the background as the boat approaches a treacherous part of the river which has become rocky and rapid, running through a treacherous gorge marked by a gnarled, leafless tree. Gentler country lies at the bottom of the defile and the distant sky line lightens in that direction hinting of the hope of better times ahead. Among the dangers the man has not lost his faith: he has let go of his boat's tiller (which may have broken) and is part kneeling, gazing upward with hands clasped together. The vessel's figurehead now holds the hourglass while far above, behind and unseen by the voyager, his guardian angel continues to watch over from the Heavens, shining brightly through a break in the clouds. Cole writes:

Trouble is characteristic of the period of Manhood. In Childhood there is no cankering care; in Youth no despairing thought. It is only when experience has taught us the realities of the world, that we lift from our eyes the golden veil of early life; that we feel deep and abiding sorrow; and in the picture, the gloomy, eclipse-like tone, the conflicting elements, the trees riven by tempest, are the allegory; and the Ocean, dimly seen, figures the end of life, to which the voyager is now approaching. The demon forms are Suicide, Intemperance, and Murder, which are the temptations that beset men in their direst trouble. The upward and imploring look of the voyager, shows his dependence on a Superior Power, and that faith saves him from the destruction that seems inevitable.

Manhood contains the most differences between the original 1840 version and the revised 1842 version. The modified version shows a reduction in the wall of rocks and more of the distant sea. As in Childhood, he repositioned the boat, moving it further back in the painting and closer to the rapids. He also modified the stance of the voyager, from standing in the original to kneeling in the replica.

Voyage of Life: Old Age

The final painting, Old Age, is an image of death. The man has grown old; he has survived the trials of life. The waters have calmed, the river flows into the waters of eternity. The figurehead and hourglass are missing from the battered boat; the withered old voyager has reached the end of earthly time. In the distance, an angel descends from heaven, while the guardian angel hovers close, gesturing toward the other. The man is once again joyous with the knowledge that Faith has sustained him through this perilous life to the promise of Heaven. The landscape is practically gone, just a few rough rocks represent the edge of the earthly world, and dark water stretches onward. Cole describes the scene: "The chains of corporeal existence are falling away; and already the mind has glimpses of Immortal Life.

Cultural Significance

The Voyage of Life was well received by critics and the public; the United States was experiencing the religious revival sometimes known as the Second Great Awakening. The four paintings were converted to engravings by James Smillie (1807–1885) after Cole's death and the engravings widely distributed in time for the Third Great Awakening, giving the series the prestige and popular acclaim it retains today

[ms-m-astrologer]

2025 Pisces New Moon

Friday, February 28, 00:45 UTC, 9°41’ Pisces

Chart erected for Washington, DC

The usual key phrase for the New lunar phase is “set a new intention for the month” - nothing drastic, just one good habit you think you can establish in one month’s time.

But this chart isn’t the best chart for that. The sole major aspect to a “traditional” planet is a square to Jupiter/Gemini - too many ideas, too many possibilities, too much fog and too much distraction. We’re talking maybe four different directions here. (Two Pisces fish plus two Gemini twins.)

There is a sextile to Pholus the Centaur, in Capricorn, but unless your natal Pholus is prominent you aren’t likely to be able to call upon that. (If you are attuned to Pholus, look for creative opportunities for growth and transformation, amidst the chaos and confusion.)

There is also the fact that Eclipse Season begins next week, on Tuesday, March 4. This is a horrible time to start things, especially if you care about the outcome.

My advice is to just sit back and observe, as detachedly as possible, all the various options and potentials wafting around - and trust The Universe to sort through them and filter them out.

There’s an Opportunity Period during the Moon’s transit through Pisces: from 23:32 UTC on Friday, February 28, to 09:52 UTC on Saturday, March 1. “Have fun, see old friends, and expand your mind.” Really nice for relaxation, too.

Then the Moon enters Aries on March 1, and it gets more intense: Mercury enters its pre-retrograde shadow, Venus makes her retrograde station; and we have to contend with a very long void Moon, lasting from 13:52 UTC on Sunday the 2nd, until 10:37 UTC on Monday the 3rd. Have a good physical outlet for the stress.

=+*+=+*+=

Just wanted to add - a few hours before this is scheduled to post - maybe one thing we could try is to set the intention to cultivate the more positive Piscean traits? Especially if it’s a trait we aren’t very good at. (Yours truly, for example, has a very difficult time “letting go and letting God/dess.”) Jupiter square the New Moon (or anything else, really) is going to exaggerate the trait, so why not pick a trait you need and go for it?

[666writingcafe]

An Interview With Satan

Part Five of A (Not-So) New Series

Question One: Do you believe in one soulmate or having several great relationships?

My beliefs fall closer to the latter. One can have different soulmates for different aspects of their life, not just romantically.

Question Two: Looking back, what advice do you wish you could have given yourself as a young demon?

Don't shut people out of your life because you're afraid of hurting them.

Question Three: Do you have a certain place you’ve always wanted to explore but haven’t yet got the chance to do so?

Some of the museums in the human world, like the Smithsonian collection in Washington DC or the Met in New York City.

Question Four: Which art form would you like to excel in if you could learn it quickly?

Drawing. I can usually get a halfway decent base, but it always ends up looking like a bad cartoon in the end.

Question Five: What hobby have you been interested in but haven’t yet tried?

Sewing, oddly enough. I see some of the things Asmo and Levi create, and they look really cool.

Question Six: What kind of entertainment is your guilty pleasure?

Watching really cheesy and/or melodramatic soap operas. You know, the ones where a season is over a hundred episodes long and each episode ends on a cliffhanger.

Question Seven: What is a subject that you could discuss for hours on end without growing tired of?

The history of just about anything. That's why I've declared it as one of my majors at RAD.

Question Eight: What is the bravest act you have ever seen someone else carry out?

Can I tell you who I think the bravest person I've ever met is? (Sure.) MC. Each time I see them taking a risk, I think it's the bravest act they've ever carried out.

Question Nine: Do you enjoy collecting things or experiences?

Oh, experiences for sure.

Question Ten: Are you more intrigued by outer space or the depths of the human mind?

The depths of the human mind, particularly MC's.

Question Eleven: What’s a small act of kindness you think everyone should practice daily?

Not saying the first thing that comes to their head. For me, that is the angry, rude response, and I've come to learn that it's not the best way to handle most day-to-day situations.

The next set of questions require you to choose between two things. (I've done this sort of thing before. As long as your questions are not too silly, I'll be good.)

Question Twelve: Would you rather spend an evening watching the sunset or at a theater?

Why not both? (That defeats the purpose of "Would You Rather.") Hear me out: you go on a date with someone. It starts during the afternoon. After grabbing a bite to eat, you watch a movie or show at a theater, making sure you choose one that ends at around dusk. Then, you sit on a bench and watch the sunset as you talk about whatever you just watched. One thing leads to another, and you end up kissing your date as the sun finishes setting. (How romantic.) I've done that a few times. Always sweeps them off their feet. (So you've done this intentionally, then.) Of course. It makes it easier for them to do what you want. *pauses* Would it surprise you to know that Asmo taught me that? I try not to do it these days, because I know it's quite manipulative.

Question Thirteen: Would you rather lose an argument to make someone happy or make someone sad by winning it?

It truly depends on the person. If I don't like them, then I'm going to do everything in my power to win the argument and revel in their sadness. But if I care deeply about them, then more times than not I'll end up dropping the argument altogether, because it's not worth losing that person over something petty like that.

Question Fourteen: Would you rather wait for someone or keep them waiting?

I hate waiting for people, but I also know it's rude to keep others waiting, so I guess neither? (Can I speak freely?) Of course. You're the one conducting the interview. (You suck at "Would You Rather.") That's because I tend to overthink things. I'm kinda like Levi in that regard.

Question Fifteen: Would you rather be dumped by someone or be the one to dump them?

I'm often the one that dumps people, so I suppose that would be what I'd prefer out of the two options. (I should have kept my mouth shut.) It's fine. You wanted more direct answers, and I'm more than happy to comply. *pauses* You think I'm a heartbreaker, don't you? (A little, yeah.) Like I said, I don't really engage in that behavior anymore. Before, I didn't care about anyone I was seeing, so it was easy for me to detach myself from them. I couldn't do that now. I'm a lot tamer now than I was back then.

Question Sixteen: Would you rather have a partner with money but no sense of humor or a poor but witty one?

Money can't buy personality. Besides, I have enough connections that I can pretty much get whatever I want, so I don't need someone to provide for me.

Question Seventeen: Would you rather be a scientist or a painter?

Ideally, a painter, but as I stated earlier, I can't really draw, so that would leave the scientist.

Question Eighteen: Would you rather live forever in a peaceful village or a bustling city?

The village. Or, better yet, a barn on the outskirts of the village. The less people I have to deal with, the better for everyone involved.

Question Nineteen: Would you rather speak all the languages in the world or speak to animals?

Language is always evolving, so it's nearly impossible to learn and speak every single one. Plus, if I had the ability to talk to animals and have them understand what I was saying, I'd be able to take care of them better.

Question Twenty: Would you rather send a sexy text message or a romantic love note?

I'm a hopeless romantic, so a good, long letter written with quill and ink and closed with a wax seal is my preferred method of telling someone how I feel about them.

Question Twenty-One: Would you rather have the power to read your partner’s mind or to influence their thoughts?

If I had to choose, I'd merely read their thoughts. Not a big fan of entering someone's mind, because it's rare that they consent to that sort of thing. I'll never forget Belphie for what he did to MC while he was inside their head.

Question Twenty-Two: Would you rather jump on a trampoline or in a bouncy house?

This is going to sound incredibly silly, but I'm lowkey afraid of both. Those things can do some serious damage to one's body if they land wrong. Just thinking about it is making me anxious.

Question Twenty-Three: Would you rather have the ability to know every answer to a question or be able to ask tough questions and confuse others?

If I knew all the answers, then part of my life loses meaning. I like researching things. It brings me joy. Plus, I feel like I already confuse others with questions that I ask, so...

Question Twenty-Four: Would you rather kiss a pig or a donkey?

A pig. Unless it's a cat, I don't like getting fur in my mouth.

Question Twenty-Five: Would you rather live amongst the trees in the jungle or in an island cave?

The cave. It's better shelter than the trees would be.

Taglist: @lost-in-time-wanderer, @fuzztacular, @dianedancer18, @sweetbrier2908, @flare-love, @completelyshatteredbrokenmschf, @thunderlightning351, @l3v1chan, @anxious-chick, @5mary5, @expressionless-fr, @tenkobitch

[mirai-e-jump]

Dengeki Tokusatsu Tsushin Vol.7 (Spring/2002) "FACE UP 2002" (Free Talk Segments) ft. Kamen Rider Ryuki Cast Members (translations below)

Publication: January 3, 2002 (before broadcast start)

"FACE UP 2002" Part 1: Takamasa Suga (page 5)

Suga: The location we filmed at today was so cold. The wind near the ocean is so strong…man! I was shivering. I want to apologize to the staff for the times I wasn't able to speak, or when I kept giving NG (no good) takes. Furthermore, today was already the beginning of Spring, so I already feel out of it. "Wow! Are you serious?" is what I kept saying (laughs).

Suga: I was actually riding the bike that was used during filming. That one's really slow. No matter what I do, it won't go any faster. But, I guess it'll be in my care for a year.

Suga: Draft Master?* I didn't understand it. If you can pour beer, then you're already good at it (laughs). I actually attended one of their course's at Kirin's headquarters. Learning things like, the temperature of a glass at which the best bubbles are produced, or something like that. During the audition, Director Tasaki asked me, "So what is a Draft Master? At that moment I thought, "Now's my chance!" So I said, "Either way, I like beer!" He responded with, "Well then, next time I'll ask you to pour me a beer, haha!," (laughs). Later I though, "I really screwed up." But, I really do like alcohol. Whether it's sake, shochu, wine, or whisky, I can get into just about anything. (*beer pouring course provided by the Kirin Brewery Co.)

Suga: As for food, I don't like green beans, celery, and other things that share a similar taste. My favorite food is sushi! Eel especially. Oh, and soba. I really like Japanese foods in general. My parents own a sushi restaurant, but I actually hated it. The raw stuff they made wasn't good at all. I would always eat dinner at the counter, and the last thing they would serve me is toro (tuna), or something else I hated, so I couldn't leave until I ate it (laughs). I would eat it while crying, and say, "Are you for real?…Dad…" (laughs). I overcame raw foods when I was in junior high, and now I don't have anything I don't like.

Suga: For the past few years, I've really gotten into Kabuki. The fact that I wore a kimono when I went to Washington DC for the stage production of "THE SAMURAI" was an incredible feeling. I was playing the role of a ninja at that time. If you say "ninja", you're considered a superhero over there. It made me think that Japanese classics are something I can proudly share with the world. At that time, I also had the opportunity to meet the sister of a Kabuki and Noh actor, and their movements were completely different from mine. They have to decide on what to decide on. Even the way they stand, the way they walk, and the way they step are all different. I think these kinds of things must have there roots in Kabuki, right? That's why I go to see Kabuki plays.

Suga: Wearing a kimono makes me feel refreshed, or rather, it's almost calming…It's like it's in my DNA. I'm not sure what I'm saying, but it just makes me feel better. I like that feeling of being relaxed. "Fasten your obi" makes you feel tense, doesn't it? I think that's where the expression "Tighten up" comes from.

Suga: The costumes of the stage actors are also incredibly gorgeous. It's like, a ten flower pattern, or a variety of patterns���the four seasons are represented by these patterns. If you look closely you'll say, "Ah, cherry blossoms. It's Spring." Kabuki has been around for about 300 years. And they've hardly change the model at all. When I think, "People 300 years ago must have watched the same kind of thing," I shiver…it makes me feel something. Kamen Rider has a long history, but I can feel the spirit of those who have been doing it within the previous century. I thought there was a connection between "Rider" and "Transformation." Kabuki actors wear makeup…you paint it white with black shading for villains, a single layer of red for good actors, and so on. In a sense, this is a transformation. I would watch it and think, "Transformation, there must be some similarities between the two."

Suga: Ryuki is a work that will surely be interesting enough for even your mother to watch, so please watch it without getting bored or dropping it. Finally, make sure to watch how Shinji Kido will grow, don't forget that there's a 24 year old guy named Takamasa Suga, and most importantly, don't forget to pay attention. I mean it! (laughs).

"FACE UP 2002" Part 2: Satoshi Matsuda (page 7)

Matsuda: The filming is rather interesting. However, all three directors are extremely talented. When the director changed, I felt as if there were alot of scenes that seemed incomplete. When I first heard about the change, it made me think that we're still not ready for this. However, I'm looking forward to this change up, since I've already learned how to play.

Matsuda: When Suga-kun and I talk together, we mainly talk about serious things. The scenes between the two of us will be the best part of the show, and by the time Summer rolls around, both of us will have improved in many ways, as we've decided to grow together, even if it's just the two of us. Even on the location bus, we're always rehearsing our lines.

Matsuda: Dinner on location is served rather early, isn't it? I eat at 6, or 7 at the latest, but I'm still hungry by the time I get home. If I get up around 11 to eat again, and work late into the night, I end up eating five meals a day. Recently though, I've had a personal obsession with the pasta series sold at convenience stores. It's a very popular trend to buy a certain dish the night before, cook it in the morning, then eat. It's delicious. I like the peperoncino ones the most.

Matsuda: For favorite foods, I've actually been incredibly unbalanced lately, as I've been eating alot of steak. I like meat. There's a steak restaurant in my neighborhood that's famous for its quality. I end up eating alot of food there. I'm also thin but gluttonous. If I eat a big meal, I gain weight, however, I also tend to lose weight quickly. I'm actually proud of this, as I have no food likes or dislikes. I love natto, I like bell peppers, I like anything really. I've also eaten frogs and other luxury foods. It tastes more like chicken meat than actual chicken. It's still shaped like a frog though.

Matsuda: Cooking is a pain in the ass. Like boiling pasta in the morning, you know? Although, sometimes on Sunday nights, I do think to myself, "Maybe I'll try to make that~." For me, pork kimchi, pasta in general, and paella are the only things I can make. Paella happened by chance. In the past, some of my friends decided, "Let's eat paella together," so I looked it up in a book and worked really hard to make it. When I served it, everyone said, "It's delicious!," and it made me so happy, that I ended up making it over and over again. As I've fed it to multiple people, it's become a perfected paella (laughs). Before I knew it, I could make paella without looking at a recipe, however I still can't make curry (laughs).

Matsuda: I'm finicky. I've always been that way, even when it comes to toys. It doesn't matter what it is. I feel that lure fishing, which is mainly a hobby for elementary school children, has reached a point where perhaps I should outgrow it. I don't have it anymore, but I was most happy when I caught fish using a lure I made myself out of balsa wood. I used it until it started falling apart. There are lures on the market that can catch more than 100 fish, but the paint peels easily…on the other hand though, the peeling paint seems to actually attract a lot of fish, doesn't it? And the minnow lures are shaped just like the small fish.

Matsuda: There's this book that I thought looked interesting at the bookstore. It's a book that I can read in my spare time, as it's something like a cross between a children's book and a regular book. I think it's incredibly easy to understand. It's a book with a strong message, and its appearance is like the title, so the impact is also strong. The concept of this book is to have a better world view, or atleast that what I think…sometimes I buy books like this. Books that are like, "What does it mean to be human?," and such.

Matsuda: The gap between the characters played by Suga-kun and myself in Ryuki is very clear, and will be very easy to watch, which is why opinions are already divided. There will be those who will only like Ryuki, Knight, Shinji or Ren. In that sense, I see Suga-kun as my rival, but we are working together everyday to produce the best work we can. Please look forward to watching and supporting us, as we try our best with filming on location.

"FACE UP 2002" Part 3: Ayano Sugiyama (page 9)

Sugiyama: My favorite foods are vegetables and fruits. I especially like hot vegetables. I recently conquered natto, but instead of just eating it plain, I eat it with kimchi and grated daikon. Since I discovered this way of eating it, I enjoy it so much, that I eat it every day.

Sugiyama: I can also cook by myself! On days when I can stay home until after 10 a.m., I'll make my own miso soup. I like Japanese food, but in the winter, the only thing growing are all the stumps, and the piles of straw in the shape of houses. I always thought people lived in them (laughs). I'd like to live in them~ (laughs). The other day I made chikuzenni. I'll always have it with kinpira gobo. I've also been cooking for my mother more recently, and she'll say, "I'm so happy, it's delicious, I'm really enjoying this!"

Sugiyama: Today we filmed episodes 5 and 6. Finally, Yui-chan was attacked. At first, I wasn't sure about my role as Yui, but everyone said, "We'll help you," to which I responded with a, "Yay!" I had kept thinking, "What am I going to do! oh man…", but when I finally saw their vision of Yui-chan, what did I think? Isn't she kind of strong willed?…It was totally different from what I was expecting, and there are some parts of her where I thought "huh?," but overall I'm really happy. Today, Knight, or rather Ren, saved me. I'm attacked by the third Rider. It's strange, isn't it? Because in this series, they're all fighting against each other…

Sugiyama: When I was small, I loved "Changeman," with ChangeGriffon being my favorite. What I'm really into right now…is Disney, I love it. That's why I've been collecting alot of Disney merchandise lately. Not only is it my favorite, I need all the support I can get right now, so it's the only thing on my mind.

Sugiyama: When we're on location, it's very early in the morning. I feel amazing though. A special skill of mine, is that I can fall asleep in 30 seconds. I;m able to fall asleep very quickly. When they say we're traveling by location bus, I have to get my favorite schedule book ready. The pattern in it changes depending on the month. I have alot of plans right now, so I always keep a schedule book on me at all times. Sometimes, I'll also write in my diary. My most favorite one has "The Little Mermaid" on it. I'd like to become a mermaid~. When I was a kid, I watched The Little Mermaid so many times on video and would always cry. I also loved "Beauty and the Beast," which also made me cry. I'm guess I'm abit of a crybaby (zzz…). Recently, I was in the makeup room talking with everyone while waiting, when suddenly, without realizing it, everyone became quiet and I feel asleep. I was already a good sleeper, but now even more so. I've been sleeping even better thanks to Ryuki (laughs).

Sugiyama: Ryuki has a bitter feeling, including the battles between the riders. Because of the strong interactions between people, I think it might be alittle difficult for smaller children to understand, but, I think adults and even high schoolers will enjoy it. Furthermore, it's very bizarre. I haven't revealed everything, about Ren-kun and Yui…but, it will slowly be revealed.

Sugiyama: I really like to move my body. I like to go out to take walks and do other things. I'll usually walk around the neighborhood at a brisk pace for about 40 minutes. I'll walk past 3 train stations to have dinner and say, "I've met my goal~!" I tend to walk on the roads of the local rice fields. The atmosphere of rice field is completely different depending on the season. In the Spring, the fields are covered with lotus roots, and in the Summer, it's flooded and rice planting begins. In the Fall, the rice ears stick out and dragonflies are everywhere.

Sugiyama: Ryuki and Knight's Suga-san and Matsuda-san are both cool, but I'd like everyone to also focus on Yui-chan as well. Furthermore, if you see me on location or at a fan meeting, please don't hesitate to call me "Yui-chan." I love children too, so taking pictures is totally OK, in fact, I'd be more than happy.

[mariacallous]

Elon Musk has told multiple people that he has been sleeping at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) headquarters in Washington, DC, WIRED has learned, as he works to exercise control over the federal government. DOGE is based out of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just steps from the White House.

At an exclusive black-tie dinner hosted by the Alfalfa Club last week, Musk told associates that he’d even been invited to spend the night in the White House itself in the Lincoln Bedroom.

The news shows how deeply Musk has embedded himself in President Donald Trump’s orbit—and how closely he’s following his tried-and-true playbook from Tesla and Twitter (now X).

During busy periods at Tesla, Musk was known for sleeping on the factory floor. “It was my primary residence,” he claimed during an interview with Ron Baron in 2022. He said the move was strategic, as he wanted employees to see him. “This is important because if the team thinks their leader is off somewhere having a good time, drinking Mai Tais on a tropical island, which I definitely could have been doing … since the team could see me sleeping on the floor during shift change, they knew I was there, and that made a huge difference, they gave it their all.”

The vision of a leader drinking cocktails on a tropical island resurfaced after Musk became Twitter’s biggest shareholder in the spring of 2022. In text messages to his friend, the podcaster and angel investor Jason Calacanis, Musk said Twitter’s newly appointed CEO Parag Agrawal was on a 10-day vacation in Hawaii. At the time, Musk had been toying with the idea of joining Twitter’s board of directors, but was growing increasingly frustrated with Agrawal. He doubted the two could work together.

“Btw, Parag is still on a ten day vacation in Hawaii,” Musk told Calacanis. “No reason to cut it short … in your first tour as ceo (!!!),” Calcanis responded, presumably with a hint of sarcasm. “Shouldn’t he be in a war room right now?!?” Musk then said: “Does doing occasional zoom calls while drinking fruity cocktails at the Four Seasons count?” (The messages were later revealed as part of the discovery process in a lawsuit between Musk and Twitter).

Ultimately, Musk decided he could not save Twitter with Agrawal at the helm, and he bought the company instead.

After the acquisition was complete, Musk began sleeping at the Twitter offices in San Francisco. Employees saw him pacing the floor late at night and being escorted to the bathroom by his security guards. He even tried to get a bathroom installed next to his office so he wouldn’t have to trek across the floor during his stays.

Musk’s lieutenant Steve Davis, CEO of the Boring Company, who has reportedly been recruiting staff to work at DOGE, also temporarily moved into Twitter HQ with his wife and newborn baby.

Earlier this week, the US Office of Personnel Management, which is already stacked with Musk lackeys, sent an email to federal workers titled “a fork in the road.”

“The federal workforce should be comprised of employees who are reliable, loyal, trustworthy, and who strive for excellence in their daily work,” the email read. It directed employees to return to the office five days a week, and commit to a culture of excellence, or effectively resign and continue receiving benefits and pay through September.

The memo closely echoed a note Musk sent to Twitter staff shortly after buying the company. In that note, sent November 16, 2022, Musk told staffers they’d need to commit to working long, intense hours to realize his new vision for the company—otherwise they should resign. “Going forward, to build a breakthrough Twitter 2.0 and succeed in an increasingly competitive world, we will need to be extremely hardcore,” he wrote. “This will mean working long hours at high intensity. Only exceptional performance will constitute a passing grade.”

[icubud]

by @WarlordDilley

I wanted to take a moment to explain a dynamic that most never Trump and democrats (as well as many Republican congress members) still don't understand...

For decades, MAGA voters have felt totally unrepresented by Congress. Over the course of several elections, we voted countless different representatives in whom we hoped would go to DC and change that feeling, and none of them could do it (thus the historically low approval rating).

In 2016, we sent a man to Washington DC who had made promises, and he did a funny thing when he got there...he kept them. His name is Donald Trump.

Then, in 2021, that same Congress we had given our money, votes, and trust to went forward and certified a fraudulent election against the only person who actually kept his promises.

Over the course of the next four years, President Trump would find his home raided, his loyal staff and supporters locked up, investigated, and indicted. He himself was also indicted numerous times, and eventually, he was also shot for his loyalty to the American people.

Despite all of the above, President Trump persevered and won back the White House.

We don't want a monarchy. We don't have "blind loyalty." President Trump has earned the loyalty he receives through sacrifice and his loyalty to us.

Thus, when President Trump asks Congress to vote on a bill and to trust his discernment on that bill, we expect them to do so. Virtue signaling about YOUR problems with that bill means jack shit to MAGA (especially when you've voted for those same types of bills countless times under Joe biden).

President Trump's agenda is what we voted for in 2024, NOT the agenda of any particular Congress member. When you say, "I have an obligation to my constituents to vote a particular way," that's also a bullshit cop out. You don't have constituents. You have Trump supporters who ONLY voted for you because President Trump endorsed you, and we wanted to give him the support he needs during his next term.

If you don't believe me about this dynamic, go look at congresses approval rating. We still don't trust you, and we never will trust you until you start falling in line and supporting President Trump, not with your words but with your votes. If you vote against President Trump's request again, MAGA will vote you out on your ass during the next primary season. FAFO.

8:48 AM · Dec 22, 2024

[jessicaminhanh]

Jessica Minh Anh's Ultimate USA Travel Guide 2023

Jessica Minh Anh has a keen eye for the most breathtaking destinations. Here is her exclusive USA travel guide for 2023, focusing on Las Vegas, San Francisco, New York, and Washington DC.

LAS VEGAS

Las Vegas is a vibrant and bustling city known for its dazzling lights, extravagant entertainment, and vibrant nightlife.

FOUR SEASONS LAS VEGAS

What better way to experience this vibrant city than staying at the Four Seasons Vegas? This luxurious hotel is situated right in the heart of the party city, offering an oasis of calm amid the glitz and glamor.

SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco is known for its incredible landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

HILTON UNION SQUARE

For those seeking a stylish and sophisticated stay, Jessica recommends the Hilton Union Square San Francisco. Boasting the highest rooftop bar in the city, this hotel provides panoramic views of San Francisco's stunning skyline, creating a memorable experience for every guest.

AXIOM SAN FRANCISCO

But if you're environmentally conscious and intrigued by futuristic amenities, Axiom San Francisco is the place to be. This eco-friendly hotel incorporates robot delivery services, adding an additional touch of modernity and innovation to your stay.

NEW YORK

New York City, the "Big Apple," is a dynamic metropolis, brimming with diversity, iconic landmarks, and an endless array of cultural experiences.

50 BOWERY HOTEL

For phenomenal views of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the Brooklyn Bridge, look no further than the 50 Bowery Hotel New York. Its rooftop bar is the perfect spot to indulge in the city's beauty while sipping on your favorite cocktail.

CONCORDE HOTEL NEW YORK

For the best tapas restaurant in midtown, Jessica suggests the Concorde Hotel New York. This establishment promises a delightful culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

WALKER HOTEL TRIBECA

If you seek another unique rooftop experience, head to the Walker Hotel Tribeca. Its stunning Flower Shop rooftop bar not only offers wonderful views of the Empire State Building but also immerses you in a botanical wonderland, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

WASHINGTON DC

Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a historic and political hub adorned with impressive monuments and renowned institutions.

O MUSEUM WASHINGTON DC

For a truly distinctive experience, Jessica recommends staying at the O Museum Washington DC. More than just a hotel, it combines the excitement of a museum with the comfort of luxury accommodation.

As you embark on this exciting journey across the United States, Jessica Minh Anh's recommendations promise an unparalleled experience, combining the finest accommodations with the most unique attractions each city has to offer.

[oceanicfate]

was that JOE LOCKE? oh no no, that was just LUCERYS VELARYON, a CANON CHARACTER from HOUSE OF THE DRAGON. They are EIGHTEEN years old, use HE/HIM, and ARE NOT aware that they are not actually from Washington DC. Too bad they can’t stray from this city for long.

* this intro contains spoilers for house of the dragon, season 1.

how long has your character been here?

lucerys has been in washington for around four months, but if you asked him, he would say he's been living in the city for a year.

what is your character's job?

luke is a freshman at university, studying english literature & linguistics. he is very interested in poetry, and in learning about old english language and literature.

where has your character been pulled from in their fandom?

directly after his death in the hands of aemond targaryen & vhagar! instead of dying, he was brought to washington. for obvious reasons, little luke has been aged up from fourteen to eighteen.

has any magic affected your character?

luke does not remember anything about his past life as a targaryen/velaryon prince. he would not be able to recognize anyone from his family, if they were to approach him. when one talks to luke about his family and aspirations, the answers he gives are very vague (he believes to have moved from england to the us because of a scholarship, but wouldn't be able to offer many details about it; he'd also say that he has a mom, a step-dad and two brothers he has no clear memories of).

however, luke remembers how to speak high valyrian and believes it was a language he invented on his own. he also has recurring dreams about his dragon, arrax.

and any other information you might find useful for us and the other members to know!!

i've been writing luke on twitter for months now, so i'm very excited to bring him to tumblr! i haven't been in here for years tho, so plspls be patient with me as i try to navigate this platform, it's all so confusing and it has changed so much lmao. if you'd like to plot with my baby, please reach out in pms or you could ask for my discord! i'm very excited to have him interact with his family & friends but also mostly meet new people. thanks for reading <3

[jules-has-notes]

2018 VoicePlay spring roundup — friends, families, fun, and fear

A busy winter for the VoicePlay boys rolled into a slightly more relaxed spring. Between various road trips and recording sessions, they made sure to spend some time with loved ones and savor their accomplisments.

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They started the season by celebrating another milestone on their YouTube page.

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3, 2, 1, Let's jam!

The boys kicked off their spring travels with a trip to northwest Arkansas for the VoiceJam A Cappella Festival. In between two days of workshops for high school, collegiate, and community groups, they headlined a concert on Friday night.

In addition to reuniting with Deke Sharon once again, they also got to see their friend Chris Diaz from The Exchange, who was the director of the only high school group selected for the festival's competition that year.

While they were there, J.None was presented with a card containing messages collected from fans around the world to celebrate him officially joining the group.

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After the festival, the guys had a couple days at home to work on other projects. If you've ever wondered how Layne comes up with his various percussion noises and deft beats, sometimes they happen just to pass the time while he's commuting.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Layne Stein (@laynestein)

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Hey, lady!

For the second week of April, the guys met up with Rachel Potter to perform at a series of private events, including a corporate gig in Hartford, CT. Since VoicePlay already had six collaborations with Rachel in their catalogue, and several more with other ladies whose parts she could learn, they had the makings of quite a setlist for those shows.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Layne Stein (@laynestein)

Five years after they released their "Trouble mashup" video and he's still got it down.

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Chickens and bergens and bugs, oh my!

During their next few days at home, they packed in some family-friendly fun. First, the Castelluccis hosted William's first birthday party, complete with a barnyard petting zoo.

A few days later, the boys met up at a local studio to film their next music video for a song about perseverance from the Trolls movie.

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Round and round

Then it was time for a swing through the mid-Atlantic states. They started in central Pennsylvania, dipped down to Washington, DC, then hustled back up to Long Island, NY.

Port Washington, NY show — photos by Winifred Boyd

[This video was originally posted to the venue's Facebook page.]

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Later, dudes!

The last weekend of April marked Earl's final performance as Crush the turtle in the live Finding Nemo show at Disney World. To celebrate the occasion, Layne and Cyndi took Doris to see the show in the morning, then the four of them spent the afternoon at the Animal Kingdom.

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A couple days later, VoicePlay scooped up Max Herskovitz to fill in for Layne on a quick cruise to the Bahamas.

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Come play with us

While the others were away, Layne and Tony worked on a couple of upcoming PattyCake videos featuring superheroes, getting one ready to release and the next ready to film. Once their buddies were back on dry land, they lured J.None into their "Unexpected Musicals" series with the role of Black Panther and a tasty rap verse in their MCU video.

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The day after that, VoicePlay gathered up some family members and headed to a nearby farm to film the video for their cover of Johnny Cash's "Daddy Sang Bass".

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Side quests

The next week, J.None popped up to Tennessee for a couple days of concentrated vocal coaching (and a little sightseeing). It's important to keep honing and expanding your skills, particularly in creative fields.

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On the following weekend, family and friends gathered to celebrate Doris Stein's second birthday party. They had a fiesta theme, and a bounce house that was a big hit with the kid of honor.

Layne, Cyndi, and the girls had also created another family music video for the occasion, this time to "BFF" from the SpongeBob musical, which they'd seen on Broadway while they were in New York for the Total Vocal concert.

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A few days later, VoicePlay teamed up with one of J.None's other groups, Paradigm Party Band, and a few kids of their acquaintence to perform at a private event.

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Teamwork makes the dream work

The next week, the boys returned to the studio to film their next "Aca Top 10" countdown featuring the songs of Disney sidekicks.

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They finished off their video filming for the spring with a location shoot at an abandoned sawmill, where they created their own scene from an action movie, complete with a Panic! at the Disco medley as a soundtrack.

[nysocboy]

Wayne Duvall (Glendon Marsh in Season 2) is currently starring in Swept Away at the Arena Stage in Washington DC. He plays the captain of a whaling ship that sinks off the coast of New Bedford, leaving four male survivors in a precarious situation. Probably involving a lifeboat and homoerotic buddy bonds

[weshipyourride]

2024 National Bike Summit Recap

Our Bikeflights event season shifted into high gear last week in Washington, DC at the 2024 National Bike Summit hosted by the League of American Bicyclists. Each spring, the Summit draws hundreds of bike advocates together from across the US to learn from and inspire each other to create more and safer opportunities for biking and walking.

Bikeflights was represented by four Ambassadors, including Tina Beecham, Jessica Brunson and Diana Hildebrand all in person and Kecia McCullough joining virtually. 

Vice President Sue George also made the trip to the nation’s capital.

Held over three days at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library and on Capitol Hill, the Summit’s energy was overwhelmingly positive. It turns out that now is a good time for bike advocacy. You can see it by simply riding around Washington, DC, where like many other parts of the country, there are increasingly more protected bike lanes, dedicated trails and paths and many other infrastructure improvements that have been proven to increase rider safety, like rumble strips and better lighting and signage.

And the momentum continues with recent infrastructure bills promising more funding to come to states and localities everywhere. Of course, there’s still plenty more work to be done. We were all reminded of a sobering statistic: there’s been a 55% increase in cycling fatalities in the US in the past 10 years.

On opening day, we especially enjoyed the presentation by Veronica O. Davis, author of “Inclusive Transportation: A Manifesto for Repairing Divided Communities.” Davis believes everyone should have access to safe, reliable and affordable transportation, and she shared some of her first-hand experiences creating more such opportunities while working for the City of Houston as the Director of Transportation & Drainage Operations. Davis painted a candid picture of what it’s really like to be on the administrative side of bike advocacy, something useful for bike advocates to better understand as they work with other administrators in similar situations.

Perhaps the most entertaining speaker was Shailen Bhatt, Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). With his witty sense of humor, Bhatt made us laugh, even while sharing info about The Active Transportation Infrastructure & Investment Program (ATIIP) and how the FHWA encourages the implementation of projects and programs to improve safety, equity and accessibility for all road users, especially through Complete Streets Planning.

Another big highlight was getting to see our very own Bikeflights Ambassador Diane Hildebrand receive an award upon being named “Educator of the Year” by the League of American Bicyclists. Congratulations to Diane!

The second – or middle day – of the Summit was what is called “Lobby Day.” That’s when Summit attendees swap out their bike shoes and helmets for business attire and meet with their respective Senators and Representatives or their staff to advocate for bills and initiatives that will create a more bicycling-friendly America. 

As we rode bikes and walked around Washington, we were treated to the sight of blooming cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin and everywhere. Mother Nature may have brought peak bloom a week or two prematurely this year, but her timing worked out to be perfect for us to enjoy.

Our big takeaway from this year’s National Bike Summit is that the most important thing is to simply show up. Again and again. We were reminded by retiring Oregon Senator Earl Blumenauer and Washington Area Bicyclist Association Advocacy Director Jeremiah Lowery that nothing ever happens to make cycling better and safer if no one shows up. 

So while not everyone can take the time or afford the expense of traveling to Washington to lobby their members of Congress for bills that fund cycling infrastructure improvements, there’s a lot we can all do locally…  such as filling out surveys to give rider input about proposed local transportation projects, attending your city or county meetings and getting involved in your local advocacy group.

Bikeflights is proud to be a long-time sponsor of the League of American Bicyclists National Bike Summit.